FEP Heat Shrinkable Tubing

Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene (FEP) heat shrink tubing is a widely used, lower cost alternative to PTFE (Teflon). FEP is sometimes called Teflon (even though that is the wrong name for it). FEP has similar dielectric and frictional properties to PTFE. Although PTFE has superior chemical resistance to FEP, FEP can be used in most applications suited for PTFE. The major difference between the two materials is the continuous use temperature. FEP heat shrinkable tubing is suitable for continuous use at temperatures up to 204°C. FEP heat shrink conforms to Mil-I-23053/11, and UL 94 (V0, VW-1).
Another advantage FEP has over PTFE is its much lower shrink temperature. While PTFE needs a temperature of over 300°C to shrink it, FEP heat shrink can shrink as low as 190°C. This can be a significant advantage when used in conjunction with temperature sensitive components.

1) As with all fluoropolymers, it is extremely important to make
sure that adequate ventilation in the immediate work area is provided
PRIOR to beginning the heat shrink process. This cannot be an afterthought,
since fumes can cause nausea and dizziness, especially if flames
are being used.
2) Only a small degree of recovery is necessary in the shrinking
process; however, you may experience a longitudinal (lengthwise)
change of up to 10%.
3) As with PTFE, mandrels can act as “heat-sinks”, causing
the material to rapidly transition back to the crystalline phase
before it gets a chance to shrink. We therefore recommend pre-heating
larger diameter mandrels.
4) Slow, even heating of the entire tube is highly recommended to
insure uniform shrinkage, and the desired results.
5) If the tubing begins to crack, chances are you overheated the
material.
6) Also, higher shrink ratios will require higher shrink temperatures.